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Posted: January 14, 2026 (1 day ago)

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Attorney - Unclassified - Circuit Public Defender, 5th Judicial Circuit

State of South Carolina

Commission on Indigent Defense

Fresh

Location

South Carolina, 29210

Salary

$221,925 - $221,925

per year

Type

Closes

February 7, 2026More State jobs →

SES Pay Grade

Base salary range: $147,649 - $221,900

Typical requirements: Executive-level leadership experience. Senior executive qualifications required.

Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).

Job Description

Summary

This job is for a lead public defender who runs the office in South Carolina's 5th Judicial Circuit, overseeing staff, managing daily operations, and directly helping clients accused of crimes, including serious cases.

It involves keeping records, handling budgets, and ensuring everything follows state laws.

A good fit would be an experienced lawyer passionate about defending those who can't afford private help, with strong leadership skills and deep knowledge of South Carolina's legal system.

Key Requirements

  • Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school
  • At least five years licensed to practice law in South Carolina courts
  • Member in good standing of the South Carolina Bar
  • Certified to defend capital felony cases under SC Statute 17-3-520(A)
  • Knowledge of South Carolina laws and judicial procedures
  • Experience in effective management and supervising employees
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and handle overnight travel

Full Job Description

This position will act as Circuit Public Defender for a specific judicial circuit for a four year term. The position is responsible for administering and coordinating the day-to-day operations of the Circuit Public Defender Office, supervising the public defenders and other staff serving in the office, and actively participating in the representation of clients throughout the judicial circuit; keeping and maintaining appropriate records, including case management data, budget information and other data and information as may be required by the commission.

Requirements

A juris doctor degree or its equivalent from an accredited law school and experience as a practicing attorney; at least 25 years of age; admitted and licensed to practice law in all courts of the State for at least five years; member in good standing of the South Carolina Bar, at all times; competent to counsel and defend a person charged with a capital felony and be certified at all times to defend capital cases in this State. (South Carolina Statute 17-3-520(A)). Knowledge of theories, practices and principles of effective management. Knowledge of the laws of SC. Knowledge of agency policies, standards and procedures. Ability to motivate and supervise employees. Ability to interpret and apply policies, laws and judicial decisions. Ability to establish priorities. Ability to comply with requirements as set forth in SC Code 17-3-520 and all other applicable statutes, rules and regulations.

Additional Information

Minimal supervision by Agency Director. Must be able to work independently. Overnight travel may be required.

THE LOCATION FOR THIS JOB IS THE COUNTIES OF THE FIFTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT.

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Posted on NEOGOV: 1/14/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 1/15/2026

Source: NEOGOV | ID: neogov-sc-5199165